Goaltenders called for interference

[frozinorth]

I'm looking for a rules interpretation, here is the scenario:

The goalie leaves the crease to stop the puck behind the net. While returning to the net the goalie and an attacking player collide and the goalie is called for interference. Two things to note, (1) the goalie had been told by a ref in the league on a previous occasion that if he made contact with an opposing player outside of the crease that he would be called for interference, and (2) he did not go out of his way to check the attacking player.

From my reading of the rules it is a bit ambiguous as to whether the goalie should be called for interfering with the opposing player or if the attacking player is guilty of goalie interference if he does not take action to avoid the 'tender who is returning to the crease.

Does anybody else have an opinion or experience with this type of infraction?

[TartanBill]

1) The ref is always right
2) The burden is upon the forechecker to avoid unnecessary contact with the goalie. If interference is called in this situation, it
should be on the forechecker.
3) If called on the goalie, see rule #1..

[sloth2946]

If contact was incidental, no call should be made. If said goalie saw said forechecker and did not make any attempt to get out of the way. 2 minutes for the keeper. If said goalie intentionally makes contact with said forechecker, 2 minutes for the keeper. If said forechecker makes contact with the goalie as said goalie is trying to get out of the way, 2 minutes for the forechecker. That is the way I see it and would call it if I were said referee!

[alw]

The bottom line is that in this particular league, and possibly with this specific ref on the ice, just remember next time to make the hit worth the penalty.

[Timberwoof]

I would like to see a penalty imposed on a referee who blocks the goalie's way back to the bench!